Monday. Despite our best efforts and the wonders of alcohol, New Year's Eve can be a melancholy time for some. Don't take any chances — see a comedy show. Comedy Works is offering stand-up sets from Greg Warren at its south club in the Landmark development, including an all-ages show at 5:30 p.m. and adults-only shows at 7:30 and 10 p.m. (5345 Landmark Place in Greenwood Village). It's also got 6, 8 and 10 p.m. shows from Ryan Sickler at its Larimer Square location (1226 15th St.) All shows are $25-$65, and tickets are available at comedyworks.com. The Denver Improv will ring in 2013 with 7 and 10 p.m. shows from BET's Rodney Perry. $25-$30, 8246 E. 49th Ave., No. 1400 in Northfield. 303-307-1777 or denver.improv.com. Late shows at all clubs include champagne toasts and party favors.

Missy Franklin, Jenny Simpson, Adeline Gray and three other Colorado women could be big players at the 2016 Rio OlympicsWhen people ask Missy Franklin for her thoughts about the Summer Olympics that will begin a year from Wednesday in Rio de Janeiro, she hangs a warning label on her answer.